Next American Vanguard is the only annual conference dedicated to enlightening, inspiring and networking the next generation of urban leaders. For two days in May, this class of leaders will have the opportunity to network with each other, engage with experts in their field, hear from local Philadelphia changemakers and jumpstart their ideas for improving cities. See below for a preliminary agenda for the 2010 event; information on the 2009 event can be found here.
Important information
- Applications will be accepted from January 14 through March 31; the Vanguard 2010 class will be finalized by May 1.
- Hotel / travel stipends up to $250 will be provided based on a demonstrated need.
Eligibility
You are eligible to apply for Next American Vanguard if:
- You are 35 years old or younger
- You have demonstrated your leadership capabilities in your work or other activities
- You live in the United States, or are actively engaged in American urban issues from abroad
- You are a Next American City subscriber. If you have not yet subscribed to the magazine, you will be prompted to subscribe at a discounted $20 rate before completing your application. If you are already a subscriber, there is no application fee.
Apply Now for Next American Vanguard 2010
We regret that due to the volume of applications we can’t respond to all applicants—if you haven’t heard from us by May 1, you can assume your application was read with great interest but was not chosen for the 2010 Vanguard class.
Preliminary Schedule
Day 1 - May 26, 2010
9am - 9pm
- Small group tours of Philadelphia civic improvement projects, in areas such as the built environment, sustainability, community development
- Lunch and keynote address
- Three-minute rapid introductions by 2010 Vanguards
- Cocktail hour with local notable figures and local young leaders
- Dinner with 2009 Vanguards
Day Two - May 27, 2010
9am - 4pm
- Focus group sessions on issues such as public/private partnerships, climate change, technology and innovation
- Public lecture in collaboration with the University of Pennsylvania Institute of Urban Research
- “Unconference” professional development workshop on topics such as public relations, organizational capacity building and community strategies
